31st Street Park
31st Street Park is a 68-acre public park located in the Oceanfront area of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Serving as a central recreational hub for both residents and tourists, the park offers a diverse range of amenities and hosts numerous community events annually. Its development reflects the city’s commitment to providing accessible green spaces and fostering a vibrant outdoor lifestyle.
History
The land comprising 31st Street Park was originally acquired by the City of Virginia Beach in the mid-20th century, with initial development occurring in the 1960s. Early plans focused on creating a multi-purpose recreational facility to serve the growing population of the Oceanfront. The park’s initial features included athletic fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas, catering to a broad spectrum of recreational needs. [1]
Over the decades, 31st Street Park has undergone several expansions and renovations to meet the evolving demands of the community. Significant upgrades in the 1990s included the construction of a modern skate park and improvements to the existing athletic facilities. More recently, the park has seen the addition of a dedicated dog park, further enhancing its appeal to a diverse range of users. The City of Virginia Beach continually invests in the park’s infrastructure, ensuring it remains a safe, attractive, and functional space for all. [2]
Geography
31st Street Park’s location places it within a relatively flat coastal plain, typical of the Virginia Beach landscape. The park’s boundaries are roughly defined by 31st Street to the north, Pacific Avenue to the west, 32nd Street to the south, and a residential area to the east. This central location makes it easily accessible from various points within the Oceanfront and surrounding neighborhoods. The park’s terrain is primarily grassy, with mature trees providing shade and aesthetic appeal.
The park incorporates both natural and man-made features. While not directly on the oceanfront, it is situated within walking distance of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean. The park’s design includes drainage systems to manage stormwater runoff, and landscaping efforts focus on utilizing native plant species to promote biodiversity and minimize environmental impact. The presence of several walking paths allows visitors to easily navigate the park and enjoy its various amenities.
Attractions
31st Street Park boasts a wide array of attractions designed to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. A prominent feature is the park’s skate park, which provides a dedicated space for skateboarders, inline skaters, and BMX riders. The park also includes multiple athletic fields used for softball, baseball, and soccer, hosting both recreational leagues and organized tournaments. Several playgrounds cater to younger children, offering a safe and engaging environment for play. [3]
Beyond these core attractions, 31st Street Park features a dedicated dog park, providing a fenced-in area where dogs can socialize and exercise off-leash. Picnic shelters and grilling areas are available for public use, making the park an ideal location for family gatherings and outdoor events. The park also hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. These events contribute to the park’s vibrant atmosphere and serve as a focal point for community engagement. [4]
Getting There
Accessing 31st Street Park is relatively straightforward due to its central location within the Oceanfront area. The park is easily reachable by car, with ample street parking available in the surrounding neighborhoods. Public transportation options include the VB Wave bus service, which has several stops within walking distance of the park. Bike lanes along Pacific Avenue and adjacent streets provide a convenient option for cyclists.
For visitors arriving from outside the immediate area, Interstate 264 (I-264) provides direct access to Virginia Beach. Exiting onto Pacific Avenue will lead directly to the park. Pedestrian access is also well-maintained, with sidewalks connecting the park to the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and nearby hotels and businesses. The park's proximity to major thoroughfares and public transportation hubs makes it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists.
Neighborhoods
31st Street Park is centrally located within the Oceanfront neighborhood of Virginia Beach. This area is characterized by a mix of residential properties, hotels, restaurants, and shops. The park serves as a community hub for residents of the surrounding neighborhoods, providing a valuable recreational resource. Immediately adjacent to the park are primarily residential areas, consisting of single-family homes and multi-unit dwellings.
Further south, towards the oceanfront, the neighborhood transitions into a more tourist-oriented district, with a higher concentration of hotels and entertainment venues. To the west, the neighborhood becomes more residential, with a mix of older and newer homes. The park’s location allows it to serve as a bridge between these different areas, fostering a sense of community and providing a shared space for residents and visitors alike.